The Forum’s iconic building undergoes major refurbishment

Formerly a fire station and reading rooms, the Grade II listed Ruskin Rooms was constructed c 1900 and was part of a remarkable development in freestyle built under the patronage of Richard Harding Watt with Harry S. Fairhurst. The building has a tall tower and has been beautifully (and unusually) constructed in painted brick with projecting blocks and small square windows deeply set into the walls. It has been in need of renovation for some years with significant areas falling into disrepair.

Very careful planning has gone into the refurbishment project to ensure all the necessary work is done to restore the Ruskin Rooms back to its former glory as well as making it a safe, pleasant and creative environment for the employees.

So at the beginning of August, extensive work commenced on the historical building with the project expected to last 14 weeks.

The Forum team are excited about the project, especially moving into the old tower, and hope to be settled into their newly refurbed office space by Christmas.

Jane our Finance Director recently said ‘We are all looking forward to seeing the building restored to its former glory and to more modern and productive surroundings!’